Hey gang! A lot of people ask me questions about solo travelling, so I thought my next blog post should be on this topic. I have had my fair share of solo traveling experiences over the years and I can’t stress enough how much I recommend it. Not only is it an opportunity to explore new places and cultures at your own pace, but it’s also a chance to learn a lot about yourself. In this post, I’ll be sharing my top 5 places to visit when solo travelling.
Solo travelling can be a bit daunting, especially if you’re new to it. Having someone with you gives you a safety blanket, but when you are on your own, that safety blanket isn’t there and that can be scary! But sometimes it is good to step out of your comfort zone and push yourself, as that’s when you usually reap the biggest rewards. And this is definitely one of those occasions.
Obviously, there are definitely dangers to be aware of when solo travelling. This includes the common dangers of all travel, such as theft or scams. You may find you are a bigger target for scammers when you are travelling on your own though, so make sure to do plenty of research about the location you are visiting so you know what scams are popular in the area. Whilst this is something to consider, you can avoid most of these issues with a bit of research and common sense.
Unfortunately, however, there are also more serious dangers to be aware of. As a solo traveller, you are at increased risk of things like violence and/or kidnapping. Whilst 99% of solo travellers explore with no problems at all, there are a minority who run into issues.
One example is Sarah Shourd. In 2009, she was travelling in the Kurdish region of Iraq when she and two friends were arrested by Iranian border guards for allegedly crossing the border. Her two friends were eventually released, but Shourd was held in solitary confinement for over a year on charges of espionage. She was released on bail of $500,000, paid by her mother, and returned to the United States. Despite her horrific ordeal, many have said she was lucky to make it out alive. Unfortunately, there are many stories about solo travellers who run into trouble in one form or another and consequently lose their lives. But, it’s important to note that these instances are rare. I’m not sharing this information to put you off solo travelling; quite the opposite, in fact! It is just important to be aware of any potential dangers so you can take precautions to prevent them.
Now, let’s get to the fun part! Here are my top 5 places to visit when solo travelling:
Japan: Japan is a great destination for solo travellers because of how safe and friendly it is. Not to mention, the food and culture are incredible. Some must-see attractions include the busy streets of Tokyo, the peaceful temples in Kyoto, and the natural beauty of Hokkaido. Japan can be a bit pricey, but there are ways to save money, such as staying in hostels or eating at local markets.
Thailand: Thailand is a popular destination for solo travellers because of its affordability and friendly locals. Some top things to do include visiting the stunning beaches in Phuket, exploring the temples in Chiang Mai, and experiencing the bustling nightlife in Bangkok. Thailand is also known for its street food, which is not only delicious but also cheap.
New Zealand: New Zealand is a beautiful country that’s perfect for solo travellers who love the outdoors. There are plenty of activities to do, such as hiking, bungee jumping, and skiing. Some must-see destinations include Milford Sound, Queenstown, and the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. New Zealand can be a bit expensive, but there are budget-friendly options such as staying in hostels or camping.
Iceland: Iceland is a unique destination that’s perfect for solo travellers who love nature and adventure. Some top things to do include seeing the Northern Lights, visiting the Blue Lagoon, and hiking to waterfalls. Iceland can be a bit pricey, but there are ways to save money such as renting a car and staying in guesthouses.
Portugal: Portugal is a charming destination that’s perfect for solo travellers who love culture and history. Some top things to do include exploring the colourful streets of Lisbon, visiting the medieval town of Sintra, and trying the local seafood. Portugal is also quite affordable compared to other European destinations.
I highly recommend solo travelling, but it’s important to do your research beforehand to stay safe. Make sure to read up on the destination’s customs and laws, and always let someone know where you’ll be. It’s also a good idea to have a backup plan in case of an emergency. But with the right mindset and precautions, solo travelling can be an unforgettable experience. Happy travels!